The Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) exams are among the most popular exams in India, attracting millions of applicants aspiring to secure a position in the Indian Railways. The RRB exams for various posts, including the Junior Engineer (JE), Assistant Loco Pilot (ALP), and Non-Technical Popular Categories (NTPC), are divided into multiple stages. These stages usually include Computer-Based Test 1 (CBT-1) and Computer-Based Test 2 (CBT-2). Each of these tests has unique features, purposes, and requirements.
In this article, we will break down everything you need to know about CBT-1 and CBT-2 in the RRB exam, from their structure and syllabus to preparation strategies. Whether you’re a first-time aspirant or preparing for a second attempt, this detailed guide will help you understand and master the CBT stages of the RRB exam.
The RRB exams for various technical and non-technical positions are structured to assess a candidate's knowledge, skills, and aptitude required for the job. Typically, RRB exams are conducted in a two-stage Computer-Based Test (CBT) format, followed by further stages like Document Verification or Skill Tests for specific posts.
Each CBT stage is designed with a unique focus:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hoKbIIHIATU
CBT-1 is the first stage of the RRB exam. It is a qualifying test, meaning that only candidates who clear CBT-1 can proceed to CBT-2. The purpose of CBT-1 is to screen candidates based on basic competencies across several subjects.
| Section | Total | Marks |
| Mathematics | 30 | 30 |
| General Intelligence & Reasoning | 25 | 25 |
| General Science | 25 | 25 |
| General Awareness on Current Affairs | 20 | 20 |
Total | 100 | 100 |
Each question in CBT-1 carries 1 mark, and there is a negative marking of 0.33 marks for every incorrect answer.
The syllabus for CBT-1 is general and assesses a candidate’s basic knowledge:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpBOhhB5__Y
CBT-2 is the second stage and is only for candidates who clear CBT-1. The questions in CBT-2 are more specific to the job profile and test the advanced knowledge required for the position.
| Section | Total Questions | Marks |
| General Awareness | 15 | 15 |
| Physics & Chemistry | 15 | 15 |
| Basics of Computers and Applications | 10 | 10 |
| Basics of Environment & Pollution Control | 10 | 10 |
| Technical Abilities | 70 | 70 |
Total | 120 | 120 |
Similar to CBT-1, each question in CBT-2 carries 1 mark, with a negative marking of 0.33 marks for incorrect answers.
CBT-2 has a more specialized syllabus focused on the job profile:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDOOMA6tVH8&t=220s
| Subject | CBT-1 Topics | CBT-2 Topics |
| Mathematics | Number system, algebra, geometry, mensuration | Advanced topics based on post requirements |
| General Intelligence | Series, coding-decoding, direction test | Logical reasoning, complex problem-solving |
| General Science | Basic Physics, Chemistry, Biology | Applied concepts specific to the job field |
| Current Affairs | National events, sports, Indian Railways | Advanced awareness relevant to job profile |
| Technical Abilities | - | Field-specific (e.g., Mechanical, Electrical) knowledge |
| Computers & Environment | - | Basic computing and environment awareness |
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqJs-rPOkWc&t=256s
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